AKEL welcomes the European Parliament Resolution on Palestine

 AKEL C.C. Press Office, 18th December 2014, Nicosia

 

AKEL welcomes the approval by the overwhelming majority of the European Parliament’s resolution supporting in principle the recognition of the Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with Jerusalem as its capital.

Although our Party and the GUE/NGL group sought a stronger and more comprehensive text calling for immediate recognition, we supported the resolution because it represents an important step in the international struggle to end the longest occupation in the world, namely the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories.

Currently, 135 States around the world recognize the Palestinian state, which includes – credit to our country and people – the Republic of Cyprus.

The need for the recognition of the Palestinian state is a contribution to the cause of peace in the much-troubled region of the Middle East. Israel must respond by tearing down the Wall of Shame, lifting the blockade of the Gaza Strip, releasing all the Palestinian political prisoners and of course ending the colonization of the Palestinian territories which is undermining the two-state solution and consequently the very prospect of peace.

We urge the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to restore and strengthen Cyprus’ role as a bridge for peace in the region, to actively assist in practice the Palestinian people and Authority, thereby enhancing the credibility of Cyprus in our own struggle for unification and liberation from the occupation.